The Straight Path of Society

be dutiful to God and bearer of just witness. Do not allow your hatred for other men to turn away from justice. Deal justly! Justice is nearer to true piety. (5:8). History shows us that most failures were due to reactionary steps goaded on by obstinacy, jealousy, irritation and opposition. Whenever individuals or groups allow their actions to be coloured by such negative emotions, they will surely drift on to the wrong path. If, however, God’s fundamental guidance were kept in view, so that man succeeded in raising his thinking from the ‘animal’ to the ‘human’ level, it would not be possible for such negative emotions to gain the upper hand: men would then surely base their planning on positive foundations—a sure formula for success. The above basic principle of the straight path in social matters is very clearly mentioned in connection with the Treaty of Hudaybiyyah: “And while bigotry—the bigotry of ignorance (jahiliyya) reigned in the heart of the unbelievers, God sent down His tranquillity on His Messenger and the faithful and made the word of piety binding on them, for they were most worthy and deserving of it. God has knowledge of all things” (48:26). That is to say that the way to keep Islam’s social activity on the straight path is to hold to piety in spite of the very blatant expression of bigotry on the part of the opponents. In other words, no step ought to be taken as a result of, or in reaction to the behaviour of the opponents. Instead, our social programme should be based on positive psychology and carried out in the light of specific principles with permanent aims in view. We should always keep our eyes on the future rather than on the present. Another vital principle of social guidance is to follow the path of God. (16:69). In this regard the Quran gives us the example of the tree. The tree first establishes its roots deep below the surface of the soil. Then it slowly raises its head towards the skies. Similarly, in the making of a community, their inner strengthening and consideration must be given first preference. No outward step should be taken before the work of consolidation has been